If you’re a fan of the iconic NYC street fairs - and I am one from here to infinity - the SGF bumps any and everything else off the list when their September Spectacular takes over Mulberry Street. They do it like nobody else can - the sweetest zeppole, sausage and peppers so good like you wouldn’t believe, pizza by the pound, and yes, fried seafood like Manna for the Gods - with a smidge of salt thrown in! I absolutely love the family atmosphere, and it’s so beautiful to see young love strolling along, just taking it all in. Mulberry Street in September gets my vote for a World Heritage Site, because when you bring that Naples to the streets of NYC - you’ve got a bona fide SHOWSTOPPER on your hands.
b smith
This is a bucket list thing if you're an American or an Italian you've got to experience a Little Italy in New York!
J Villafane
The San Gennaro Feast in Manhattan’s Little Italy is a beloved celebration that brings the heart of Italian-American culture to life. Known as one of New York City’s most iconic street festivals, it’s a must-visit event filled with delicious food, vibrant traditions, and lively entertainment.
Overview of the Festival
Held annually in September, the Feast of San Gennaro honors the patron saint of Naples, San Gennaro, and celebrates the rich heritage of Italian immigrants in New York City. Spanning Mulberry Street and surrounding areas, the festival lasts 11 days and attracts locals and tourists alike.
What Makes It Great?
1. The Food
The festival is a food lover’s paradise, featuring: • Classic Italian Dishes: Indulge in sausage and pepper sandwiches, zeppole (fried dough), cannoli, meatballs, and pasta. • Street Food Vibes: Vendors line the streets with tempting smells of pizza, arancini, and fried calamari. • Signature Drinks: Pair your meal with Italian wines, limoncello, or a refreshing Aperol Spritz. • Cannoli Eating Contest: A highlight of the feast, where participants compete to eat as many cannoli as possible.
2. The Atmosphere
The streets of Little Italy come alive with: • Music and Entertainment: Traditional Italian folk music, live bands, and street performers set the tone. • Decorations: Twinkling lights, colorful banners, and festive garlands create an inviting and celebratory ambiance. • Crowds and Energy: The lively, bustling atmosphere makes it feel like a big family gathering.
3. The Religious Procession
The feast stays true to its religious roots with: • A solemn procession of the statue of San Gennaro through the streets, accompanied by prayers, music, and reverence. • A special mass at the Most Precious Blood Church, dedicated to San Gennaro.
4. Shopping and Souvenirs
Explore stalls selling: • Italian-themed memorabilia. • Handcrafted jewelry and art. • Unique gifts that make for great keepsakes.
5. Family-Friendly Fun
While the festival has plenty of adult appeal, it’s also great for families with: • Carnival games. • Amusement rides. • Kid-friendly food options.
Pros • Rich Culture: The feast beautifully blends religious traditions with cultural celebration. • Incredible Food: Authentic Italian cuisine and street food are the stars of the event. • Vibrant Community: It’s a place to meet people, celebrate heritage, and experience the best of Little Italy.
Anais G.
I had the incredible opportunity to experience the San Gennaro Festival in Little Italy, and it was nothing short of amazing! This vibrant celebration truly captures the spirit and culture of the Italian community in New York City.
From the moment I arrived, the festive atmosphere was palpable. The streets were lined with colorful booths offering delicious food, handmade crafts, and various carnival games. The aroma of freshly cooked sausages, fried dough, and Italian pastries wafted through the air, tempting my taste buds at every turn. I couldn't resist trying a classic cannoli, and it was one of the best I’ve ever had!
The festival features an array of entertainment, including live music, cultural performances, and even a lively procession in honor of San Gennaro. The San Gennaro Festival is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in Italian culture, enjoy fantastic food, and soak up the lively atmosphere of Little Italy. I left feeling full and happy, already looking forward to next year’s festivities. If you have the chance to attend, I highly recommend it—it's an unforgettable experience!
kim smith
Extremely crowded. There's no awareness of direction when walking. Super chaotic.
Jokeyni Lorenzo Tavarez
I actually did not enjoy this. Too crowded.
isis nimmons
High prices for the food but delicious
Kevin Cullen
Great atmosphere. Crowded
Omar P Granada
although is a great plan and their food options are from different countries cuisines - the place gets so busy you can barely walk, most of places only accept cash which is super lame, there are lots of panhandlers and tends to be extra dirty. if you’re a tourist or local you will enjoy either way as long as you’re patient and have enough free time to spend there
Extremely crowded. Food options weren’t the best. Lacked in flavor. Drinks were weak as well. All in all, still a good time for your average New Yorker to embrace the culture & partake in some traditional festivities.
Anne Cintilus
The biggest festival is the Feast of San Gennaro held every September in New York City, which attracts about one million people
Henry Michels
Too crowded and prices skyrocketed. However, we visit the event every year anyway 🇮🇹
Reals Tours
Disaster...bad odor of the floor
EDWARD RUBINSHTEYN
My First San Gennaro Festival & I Loved It ! It was Hot, Packed, Smelly, Messy & I Loved Every Bit Of It ! Definitely Recommend ! Had A Great Time 👨🏻🍳🍝🤌🍋🇮🇹
If you’re a fan of the iconic NYC street fairs - and I am one from here to infinity - the SGF bumps any and everything else off the list when their September Spectacular takes over Mulberry Street. They do it like nobody else can - the sweetest zeppole, sausage and peppers so good like you wouldn’t believe, pizza by the pound, and yes, fried seafood like Manna for the Gods - with a smidge of salt thrown in! I absolutely love the family atmosphere, and it’s so beautiful to see young love strolling along, just taking it all in. Mulberry Street in September gets my vote for a World Heritage Site, because when you bring that Naples to the streets of NYC - you’ve got a bona fide SHOWSTOPPER on your hands.
This is a bucket list thing if you're an American or an Italian you've got to experience a Little Italy in New York!
The San Gennaro Feast in Manhattan’s Little Italy is a beloved celebration that brings the heart of Italian-American culture to life. Known as one of New York City’s most iconic street festivals, it’s a must-visit event filled with delicious food, vibrant traditions, and lively entertainment.
Overview of the Festival
Held annually in September, the Feast of San Gennaro honors the patron saint of Naples, San Gennaro, and celebrates the rich heritage of Italian immigrants in New York City. Spanning Mulberry Street and surrounding areas, the festival lasts 11 days and attracts locals and tourists alike.
What Makes It Great?
1. The Food
The festival is a food lover’s paradise, featuring:
• Classic Italian Dishes: Indulge in sausage and pepper sandwiches, zeppole (fried dough), cannoli, meatballs, and pasta.
• Street Food Vibes: Vendors line the streets with tempting smells of pizza, arancini, and fried calamari.
• Signature Drinks: Pair your meal with Italian wines, limoncello, or a refreshing Aperol Spritz.
• Cannoli Eating Contest: A highlight of the feast, where participants compete to eat as many cannoli as possible.
2. The Atmosphere
The streets of Little Italy come alive with:
• Music and Entertainment: Traditional Italian folk music, live bands, and street performers set the tone.
• Decorations: Twinkling lights, colorful banners, and festive garlands create an inviting and celebratory ambiance.
• Crowds and Energy: The lively, bustling atmosphere makes it feel like a big family gathering.
3. The Religious Procession
The feast stays true to its religious roots with:
• A solemn procession of the statue of San Gennaro through the streets, accompanied by prayers, music, and reverence.
• A special mass at the Most Precious Blood Church, dedicated to San Gennaro.
4. Shopping and Souvenirs
Explore stalls selling:
• Italian-themed memorabilia.
• Handcrafted jewelry and art.
• Unique gifts that make for great keepsakes.
5. Family-Friendly Fun
While the festival has plenty of adult appeal, it’s also great for families with:
• Carnival games.
• Amusement rides.
• Kid-friendly food options.
Pros
• Rich Culture: The feast beautifully blends religious traditions with cultural celebration.
• Incredible Food: Authentic Italian cuisine and street food are the stars of the event.
• Vibrant Community: It’s a place to meet people, celebrate heritage, and experience the best of Little Italy.
I had the incredible opportunity to experience the San Gennaro Festival in Little Italy, and it was nothing short of amazing! This vibrant celebration truly captures the spirit and culture of the Italian community in New York City.
From the moment I arrived, the festive atmosphere was palpable. The streets were lined with colorful booths offering delicious food, handmade crafts, and various carnival games. The aroma of freshly cooked sausages, fried dough, and Italian pastries wafted through the air, tempting my taste buds at every turn. I couldn't resist trying a classic cannoli, and it was one of the best I’ve ever had!
The festival features an array of entertainment, including live music, cultural performances, and even a lively procession in honor of San Gennaro. The San Gennaro Festival is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in Italian culture, enjoy fantastic food, and soak up the lively atmosphere of Little Italy. I left feeling full and happy, already looking forward to next year’s festivities. If you have the chance to attend, I highly recommend it—it's an unforgettable experience!
Extremely crowded. There's no awareness of direction when walking. Super chaotic.
I actually did not enjoy this. Too crowded.
High prices for the food but delicious
Great atmosphere. Crowded
although is a great plan and their food options are from different countries cuisines - the place gets so busy you can barely walk, most of places only accept cash which is super lame, there are lots of panhandlers and tends to be extra dirty. if you’re a tourist or local you will enjoy either way as long as you’re patient and have enough free time to spend there
Vincent’s baked clams 👌👌👌
Restaurantji Recommends
Extremely crowded. Food options weren’t the best. Lacked in flavor. Drinks were weak as well. All in all, still a good time for your average New Yorker to embrace the culture & partake in some traditional festivities.
The biggest festival is the Feast of San Gennaro held every September in New York City, which attracts about one million people
Too crowded and prices skyrocketed. However, we visit the event every year anyway 🇮🇹
Disaster...bad odor of the floor
My First San Gennaro Festival & I Loved It !
It was Hot, Packed, Smelly, Messy & I Loved Every Bit Of It ! Definitely Recommend ! Had A Great Time 👨🏻🍳🍝🤌🍋🇮🇹
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